The Chronicle Herald (Metro)

WATTERS, Frederick Joseph

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August 14, 1925 - October 30, 2020. It is with much sadness that we share the news of the death of Frederick Joseph Watters on October 30th at the age of 95 years in Dartmouth General Hospital. Fred was born in Halifax, August 14th, to parents George Thornton Watters (of Halifax) and Florence Mae Lapierre (Grand Desert). He grew up in Halifax’s North End, living in an upper flat on the corner of Bilby and Agricola Streets where he was raised by his grandmothe­r Mary (Mcgrath) and grandfathe­r Frederick Watters Sr. As a child he attended Alexander Mckay School on Russell Street. A talented actor and singer, Fred was involved from a young age in many community plays. Early roles in production­s in the old St. Joseph’s Hall such as "The Last Supper" 1955 and later with the Theatre Actor’s Guild production of Enter Laughing , and CBC television production­s "The Secret Christmas Tree"; also CBC Radio dramas "The Gilhens" and "Mystery Theatre" to name a few. He was a lifetime member of ACTRA and did commercial work as well as parts in a number of movies filmed in the maritime provinces such as "Labour of Love", "My Bloody Valentine", "The Little Kidnappers" and "Justice Denied". Fred had a deep love and knowledge of music that led him to part-time positions hosting shows on a number of radio stations such as CFAB, CJCH, CHNS, and CFDR in the 50s, 60’s, and early 70’s. His last foray into radio was when he volunteere­d for Northwood Broadcasti­ng where he hosted a popular weekly show called " A Man and His Music" from 1994 to 2002. During these two- hour broadcasts, he was able to showcase his vast musical knowledge and his large vinyl collection. Frederick retired in 1987 from his full-time occupation from HMCS Dockyard after 31 years of service. Posessing a sharp wit and unfailing memory, Fred had a gift for telling a story in vivid detail and with great humour. Whether it be a story from his youth or what happened in the grocery store that afternoon, he usually had his audience laughing along with him by the end of his recollecti­ons and reminiscin­g. He could find humour even in the tough times. Frederick was predecease­d by brothers, Ronnie, Bernie, and George; and sisters, Jean and Muriel (Smith). He is survived by, and will be greatly missed by, his loving wife of 55 years, Carol ( Dobson); daughter, Denyse; son, Gerard; and favorite granddaugh­ter, Rowan Watters-harris. He is also survived by his sister, Doris (Bowen) of Pugwash Junction; brother, Kenneth Stokes, Halifax; and many nieces and nephews. Fred loved the ocean, listening to his music, animals ... especially dogs, and he loved his family, and we certainly loved him. We will miss you Fred, Dad, Grampy. Rest in peace. There is no public memorial service at this time. Donations can be made in Fred’s name, to an animal rescue organizati­on of your choice or The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

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